Lightning Experience Improvement Suggestions

[TrapMastiff]

Not sure where this should be put in the forum. Mods please move it if in the wrong place or if it can be put somewhere better.

anywho, here is some suggestions for Ford about the whole Lightning experience. Feel free to add to it.


All that said- These are my concerns with my new Lightning, the FordPass app, FordPass Visa App and Ford Motor Company generally.



FordPass App. TL;DR it’s ok.

1. I should be able to message and schedule service, send photos and videos about my concern and track progress of my service(and loaner car) visit all in real time on the native app. Not some BS link to a website that you have to call a number if it’s anything other than a haphazard selection of services(none of which cater to an EV).
2. I bought a 72k truck. How in 2025 does my phone not work as a key? Wild. And disappointing. For 2k more a cyber truck uses no key fobs.
3. Service history- why can’t I see actual invoices that I can download(native on the app)? That’s absurd.
4. Maintnance schedule- should default to my mileage.
5. I should be able to change the color of my truck as well as wheels in the app.
6. I should be able to open and close the trunk and tailgate from the app.
7. I should be able to see out of the cameras from the app live streamed and be able to send clips from my phone to anyone.
8. I should be able to send an address from my phone(maps) to my truck.
9. I should be able to see how fast it’s going, what doors are open, and what music is playing, and what lights are on in real time on the app
10. I should be able to purchase parts, service, accessories(for my VIN) and vehicles all on the app(like Amazon).

F-150 Lightning Features(or lack thereof)-

1. Software updates. A clear and concise description of all versions and software updates that have ever been on the truck under the software update tab.
2. The splash screen shows a 2022 Lightning not my 24.
3. Drive mode- eco should be available(why is this not a thing?). Numb the accelerator, minimize usage of A/C, max regen, etc.
4. Chargeport heater. When it snows and you are charging, it’s impossible to close. Additionally, the charge flap seems flimsy and will break if you try to close it anyway. Or look at it wrong. I should be able to enable the charge port heater from the GUI in the truck.
5. instrument cluster packs- the Instrument Cluster is one giant screen, why can’t I buy any gauge cluster representation ford has ever made? You guys(corporate) own the copyrights…. From the model T to a 69 Boss mustang, or a 1993 Saleen mustang or 2002 F-150 lightning or even a Ford GT40. I mean that would be awesome- you guys did this on the mustang… I should be able to replicate that on my dash. Why? Because it’s cool! And Ford isn’t boring right?
6. Feedback- feedback microphone is cool, but why can’t I get a ticket number? This way it looks like I’m heard and the customer has incentives to continue providing feedback.
7. Feedback cont- why can’t I send a feedback request OR FEATURE REQUEST through the app?
8. Again- a 72k truck….. garage door remote, manual rear windshield vent thing, and MEMORY SEATS should be standard. Also why can’t I have an optional(or dealer installed 2nd row heated seats. IN A 72k TRUCK! All these should be something I can install at the dealer.
9. The games are cool and creative. I want to see Netflix and YouTube as well as a web browser I can hook up a mouse or game controller to. Additionally the instrument cluster should also be a second screen to watch movies on.
10. UPFITTER SWITCHES! You guys make them for like every other truck except this one. I should be able to splice in lights no sweat. Make terminals at various places in the truck so I can easily add them to the upfitter switch .
11. The power outlets are badass! Thanks.
12. DOG MODE- the screen should tell people that my mastiff Otto is chillin at whatever the temp is set so my windows won’t get broken out.
13. Improve the GUI of the truck- zone lighting up fitter switches, pro-power and things of the sort should be in a tab labeled “Ford Pro” not scattered about the interface.
14. A way to upload insurance documents so that if you get pulled over it’s on the screen.
15. No notification on the app if charging stops

Ford Motor Company Generally-

1. At this price point why don’t you guys have a Lightning experience? When I went to the ST SUV experience with my wife it was so memorable we nearly purchased another Explorer ST to replace the lemon ST we had a nightmare with(see above).
2. Ford Power Promise- I should get tracking(within hours) and a phone call within a day of closing(I wonder if Qmerit works Sundays)
3. I should be able to submit all paperwork to the dealer via the app. Theoretically I should be able to see the entire deal in real time on the app. This prevents people from getting bored waiting on F/I.
4. SWAG!- there’s like nothing available on the ford website flightning specific swag(shirts, yetis, coolers, etc).
5. Lightning specific accessories- I have to wade through a bunch of F-150 gas/diesel accessories instead of having ONE MORE DROP DOWN.
6. Ford Performance- can’t you guys make an accessories pack for the Lightning like the mustang? Lowering kit, wheels performance tires fog lights spoilers, decals, an ST mode? You guys made a Ford Performance Lightning concept so I know not everyone over in Dearborn isn’t boring.
7. An active duty service member should not have to fight tooth and nail to fund a car though FoMoCo. All I needed to provide was orders. I kept being asked for proof of residence(AD Servicemeber buying a vehicle in Colorado with FL as state of residence).

FordPass Visa and App

1. I should be able to see my points and tier levels directly on the app. Not get a link to sign in again
2. Ford Credit, FordPass, and FordPass Visa should be one app.

Additionally:



Why can’t I purchase lifetime BlueCruise at anytime via the app?

Sponsored

 

[sotek2345]

Ford doesn't do a great job linking to it, but here is your SWAG:

https://merchandise.ford.com/collections/ford-trucks-f-150-lightning

 

[Timeless Epoch]

Some solid suggestions, but a few didn't make sense to me.

Ford does offer phone as a key and the ability to open the frunk and tailgate via the app. This and a few of your other recommendations are trim level related. I think choice is the better option, personally.

For eco mode, I couldn't imagine a more numb accelerator curve than 'normal' mode. Regen is already always at max via either integration with the brake pedal or 1 pedal drive. Leaving only climate which is already readily available. I prefer this approach of always being able to get the max out of the truck without having to jump through hoops or compromise the driving experience.

But not to dog on you. I love several of those suggestions, like better service integration, being able to view the cameras in app, etc.

 

[The Weatherman]

@Ford Motor Company

Brian, here are some more suggestions for you.

 

[TrapMastiff]

Ford doesn't do a great job linking to it, but here is your SWAG:

https://merchandise.ford.com/collections/ford-trucks-f-150-lightning

Thats sick! I'll have to pull my card out lol.

 

[TrapMastiff]

Some solid suggestions, but a few didn't make sense to me.

Ford does offer phone as a key and the ability to open the frunk and tailgate via the app. This and a few of your other recommendations are trim level related. I think choice is the better option, personally.

For eco mode, I couldn't imagine a more numb accelerator curve than 'normal' mode. Regen is already always at max via either integration with the brake pedal or 1 pedal drive. Leaving only climate which is already readily available. I prefer this approach of always being able to get the max out of the truck without having to jump through hoops or compromise the driving experience.

But not to dog on you. I love several of those suggestions, like better service integration, being able to view the cameras in app, etc.

PAAK:

What I'm getting at is that I'd like there to be a kit available for retrofitting. At most, it's a module and a software/firmware update. Similar to how Tesla adds the garage door opener.

Eco Mode:

I'm no engineer, but it would be nice to see what they can do with it.

 

[TrapMastiff]

@Ford Motor Company Feel free to DM me!

 

[electricpig]

There is an eco mode. To engage eco mode, All you got to do is drive slower and don't floor it or use your brakes

 

[TrapMastiff]

There is an eco mode. To engage eco mode, All you got to do is drive slower and don't floor it or use your brakes

Big facts.
similar to the dog mode where you leave the truck running, turn off the shut down timer and draw a note using sketch.

are there any feature requests or other items you would like to add to the list?

 

[P-38]

Make Google EV routing work on all trucks (soon™)

Opening frunk should not turn off remote start
Eliminate Pro power minimum power draw in 6 minutes or it shuts off
Longer passenger side windshield wiper(so I'm not looking thru half clear half not)
Default to last drive mode when starting
Physical climate buttons on higher trims
Auto climate using more fan speed so it keeps up
ACC better able to handle crossing traffic without freaking out and mashing the brakes, especially at Michigan lefts
Android auto dropping out at specific streches of road and re connecting
Bluecruise able to drive thru open road tolling
Better climate control for rear seat
More aggressive auto hi beam turn on, especially turning back on after on coming traffic has passed.

Overall I do love the truck

 

[CerebralPrimate]

As others said, default to last drive mode... Jeezus is that annoying AF. Makes me question if they ever test drove their own product for any amount of time to see what things annoyed them. Or, was it that they knew, but someone at a high enough level simply said "Nah, that'll be fine", cuz that absolutely happens in the executive levels.

 

[Perry]

Big facts.
similar to the dog mode where you leave the truck running, turn off the shut down timer and draw a note using sketch.

are there any feature requests or other items you would like to add to the list?

Sketch??

 

[Ford Motor Company]

Not sure where this should be put in the forum. Mods please move it if in the wrong place or if it can be put somewhere better.

anywho, here is some suggestions for Ford about the whole Lightning experience. Feel free to add to it.


All that said- These are my concerns with my new Lightning, the FordPass app, FordPass Visa App and Ford Motor Company generally.



FordPass App. TL;DR it’s ok.

1. I should be able to message and schedule service, send photos and videos about my concern and track progress of my service(and loaner car) visit all in real time on the native app. Not some BS link to a website that you have to call a number if it’s anything other than a haphazard selection of services(none of which cater to an EV).
2. I bought a 72k truck. How in 2025 does my phone not work as a key? Wild. And disappointing. For 2k more a cyber truck uses no key fobs.
3. Service history- why can’t I see actual invoices that I can download(native on the app)? That’s absurd.
4. Maintnance schedule- should default to my mileage.
5. I should be able to change the color of my truck as well as wheels in the app.
6. I should be able to open and close the trunk and tailgate from the app.
7. I should be able to see out of the cameras from the app live streamed and be able to send clips from my phone to anyone.
8. I should be able to send an address from my phone(maps) to my truck.
9. I should be able to see how fast it’s going, what doors are open, and what music is playing, and what lights are on in real time on the app
10. I should be able to purchase parts, service, accessories(for my VIN) and vehicles all on the app(like Amazon).

F-150 Lightning Features(or lack thereof)-

1. Software updates. A clear and concise description of all versions and software updates that have ever been on the truck under the software update tab.
2. The splash screen shows a 2022 Lightning not my 24.
3. Drive mode- eco should be available(why is this not a thing?). Numb the accelerator, minimize usage of A/C, max regen, etc.
4. Chargeport heater. When it snows and you are charging, it’s impossible to close. Additionally, the charge flap seems flimsy and will break if you try to close it anyway. Or look at it wrong. I should be able to enable the charge port heater from the GUI in the truck.
5. instrument cluster packs- the Instrument Cluster is one giant screen, why can’t I buy any gauge cluster representation ford has ever made? You guys(corporate) own the copyrights…. From the model T to a 69 Boss mustang, or a 1993 Saleen mustang or 2002 F-150 lightning or even a Ford GT40. I mean that would be awesome- you guys did this on the mustang… I should be able to replicate that on my dash. Why? Because it’s cool! And Ford isn’t boring right?
6. Feedback- feedback microphone is cool, but why can’t I get a ticket number? This way it looks like I’m heard and the customer has incentives to continue providing feedback.
7. Feedback cont- why can’t I send a feedback request OR FEATURE REQUEST through the app?
8. Again- a 72k truck….. garage door remote, manual rear windshield vent thing, and MEMORY SEATS should be standard. Also why can’t I have an optional(or dealer installed 2nd row heated seats. IN A 72k TRUCK! All these should be something I can install at the dealer.
9. The games are cool and creative. I want to see Netflix and YouTube as well as a web browser I can hook up a mouse or game controller to. Additionally the instrument cluster should also be a second screen to watch movies on.
10. UPFITTER SWITCHES! You guys make them for like every other truck except this one. I should be able to splice in lights no sweat. Make terminals at various places in the truck so I can easily add them to the upfitter switch .
11. The power outlets are badass! Thanks.
12. DOG MODE- the screen should tell people that my mastiff Otto is chillin at whatever the temp is set so my windows won’t get broken out.
13. Improve the GUI of the truck- zone lighting up fitter switches, pro-power and things of the sort should be in a tab labeled “Ford Pro” not scattered about the interface.
14. A way to upload insurance documents so that if you get pulled over it’s on the screen.
15. No notification on the app if charging stops

Ford Motor Company Generally-

1. At this price point why don’t you guys have a Lightning experience? When I went to the ST SUV experience with my wife it was so memorable we nearly purchased another Explorer ST to replace the lemon ST we had a nightmare with(see above).
2. Ford Power Promise- I should get tracking(within hours) and a phone call within a day of closing(I wonder if Qmerit works Sundays)
3. I should be able to submit all paperwork to the dealer via the app. Theoretically I should be able to see the entire deal in real time on the app. This prevents people from getting bored waiting on F/I.
4. SWAG!- there’s like nothing available on the ford website flightning specific swag(shirts, yetis, coolers, etc).
5. Lightning specific accessories- I have to wade through a bunch of F-150 gas/diesel accessories instead of having ONE MORE DROP DOWN.
6. Ford Performance- can’t you guys make an accessories pack for the Lightning like the mustang? Lowering kit, wheels performance tires fog lights spoilers, decals, an ST mode? You guys made a Ford Performance Lightning concept so I know not everyone over in Dearborn isn’t boring.
7. An active duty service member should not have to fight tooth and nail to fund a car though FoMoCo. All I needed to provide was orders. I kept being asked for proof of residence(AD Servicemeber buying a vehicle in Colorado with FL as state of residence).

FordPass Visa and App

1. I should be able to see my points and tier levels directly on the app. Not get a link to sign in again
2. Ford Credit, FordPass, and FordPass Visa should be one app.

Additionally:



Why can’t I purchase lifetime BlueCruise at anytime via the app?

Me opening this thread:

In all seriousness... taking note of these. Thanks for sharing.

 

[Sgt. Carter]

Me opening this thread:

In all seriousness... taking note of these. Thanks for sharing.

 

[TrapMastiff]

Sketch??

Yes, the sketch app in the entertainment tab in infortaimnet(where YouTube and ahem… Netflix should be).

Sponsored